NEW PUBLISHING OPPORTUNITY:
In the Margins Zine
Developed and led by your Inklings Youth Leaders
The Society of Young Inklings is thrilled to announce the launch of our new literary zine, In the Margins! In the Margins is a zine dedicated to the fragments, the footnotes, the almost-erased lines—the stories that exist just outside the center.
The theme for our first issue is Puzzle Pieces. We invite you to interpret this theme in any way you choose: perhaps two characters are literally solving a puzzle, or perhaps a character doesn’t fit neatly into the world they were meant for. We’re drawn to work that discovers meaning in what feels incomplete, mismatched, or overlooked.
We’re looking for writing and art that lingers in the margins, both formally and emotionally.
We welcome:
- Poetry (up to 80 lines)
- Fiction stories and creative nonfiction (up to 1500 words)
- Visual art and photography (see ideas below)
- Hybrid/experimental work, including pieces for our special sections* (up to 1500 words)
*For this issue, we’re especially excited to feature submissions for three unique sections—prompts, musical playlists, and interactive activities—and we warmly encourage you to submit to them!
Entry submission is now closed.
What kinds of images might you submit?
Submission Guidelines
- Submit via our submission form below
- One piece per form (submit multiple forms for multiple pieces)
- You may submit up to 5 total pieces
- Submit images as png files (high-resolution, 300 dpi, suitable for print)
- Submit written works as pdf files
Pieces must be:
- Original work only
- No AI-generated submissions
- Aligned with Inklings community values
We can’t wait to read your work! Whether your piece feels unfinished, unconventional, or just a little out of place—we want to see it. Sometimes the most important stories are the ones written in the margins!
In the Margins Zine FAQ
When will I hear back about my submission?
Our editorial team will be in touch by May 31, 2026.
Who is on the editorial team?
The editorial team is made up of Inklings youth leaders and is facilitated by Naomi Kinsman.
How will pieces be evaluated?
The editorial team is looking for a range of pieces that demonstrate the varied voices, styles, and perspectives of our Inklings community. We’re evaluating for
- Clarity & Craft
(Is the writing understandable and intentional? Is the image clear and well-crafted?) - Voice & Originality
(Does it feel distinct, surprising, or personal?) - Emotional or Imaginative Impact
(Does it make us feel or see something?)
What do you mean by “Inklings Community Values”?
We publish thoughtful work that is kind and age-appropriate. When dealing with complex themes, we ask writers to consider the range of potential readership and to present an authentic-to-their-voice, respectful perspective. We’re here to build each other another up, not to tear each other down.
When considering what is age appropriate, please keep in mind that our community welcomes writers ages 8-18. To make sure that everyone feels comfortable, we keep our published writing free from violent, harmful, or adult-only themes or language.
Is the Zine digital or print?
Both! We will provide a complimentary version of the Zine to the general public in digital form. US-based writers who are published in the Zine will receive a print copy, and international writers can opt to have a physical copy sent for a small shipping fee. Print copies will be available for sale, as well.